Multichannel quantum defect theory with a frame transformation for ultracold atom-molecule collisions in magnetic fields

Abstract

We extend the powerful formalism of multichannel quantum defect theory combined with a frame transformation to ultracold atom-molecule collisions in magnetic fields. By solving the coupled-channel equations with hyperfine and Zeeman interactions omitted at short range, the extended theory enables a drastically simplified description of the intricate quantum dynamics of ultracold molecular collisions in terms of a small number of short-range parameters. We apply the formalism to ultracold Mg + NH collisions in a magnetic field, achieving a 10${}^4$-fold reduction in computational effort.